The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) increased the fee for individuals refusing voluntary departure. The new fee only kicks in if the individual stays in the U.S. and is detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Currently, the fee increase is in the proposal phase and won’t be implemented until June 22, 2026.
Fee Details
ICE issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for the increased fee. The NPRM increases the fee from $5,130 to $18,000. Specifically, the exact cost of the new fee will likely total $18,042. Half of the new fee goes to ICE’s Detention and Removal Office, creating an active source of revenue.
Impact
The new fee increases the cost for individuals refusing voluntary departure. The NPRM stated the number of in absentia removal orders nearly doubled from 2024 to 2025. While the proposed fee won’t apply to in absentia order rates, it makes recipients more likely to appear for immigration court proceedings.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.